It was New Zealand's acute misfortune to be confronted by two of Test cricket's most prolific batsmen of the moment at a time when the Basin Reserve had flattened out from the early life that Australia's bowlers had exploited so ably on day one.

Usman Khawaja's imperious fourth Test hundred in as many first innings and Adam Voges' calm supporting hand helped Australia take command of the first Test, in a day of considered and relentless batting that Steven Smiths' team will hope to replicate many times over on foreign assignments.

Finding an ideal offsider in Voges, Khawaja picked gaps regularly off both front and back foot to register his first Test century overseas. Given the opposition and the conditions he faced on day one it was arguably his finest, ending only when Trent Boult briefly found some life with the second new ball.

Voges was more reserved, but endured beyond the dismissals of Khawaja and a hard-handed Mitchell Marsh to forge on in the latest chapter of his extraordinary latter-day Test career. He was aided on his quest by a studied Peter Nevill and a helpful Peter Siddle - between them they helped Voges add 164. How Zealand must have cursed the "no-ball" on the first evening.

The pitch in Wellington eased into an ideal batting surface, and Brendon McCullum's bowlers struggled to find a way past Australia's in-form batting pair. Tim Southee and Boult found little movement to assist them, with pace and bounce reliably consistent for stroke play. The new ball brought more danger.

Southee had drawn a play and miss from Khawaja in the day's first over, but the final ball was sliced firmly backward of point for a pressure-releasing boundary. From there Khawaja was particularly punishing through the covers, and swivelled to pull powerfully when Doug Bracewell dropped short.

Voges was circumspect, settling into the crease for a long occupation, but drove and cut with alacrity when the opportunities arose. He was happy enough for the most part to play in Khawaja's slipstream, an eminently sensible approach given how well Australia's No. 3 is playing.

Khawaja waited six balls on 99 before Mark Craig gave him an obligingly short delivery to tug behind square leg. The milestone was cause for ebullient celebration, before Khawaja got quickly back to business.

Craig had one lbw appeal against Khawaja after he had passed three figures, but the DRS showed the ball was only clipping leg stump and Richard Illingworth's not-out verdict stood. As if to compound Craig's frustration, Khawaja cut the next two deliveries for four.

After lunch the pair accelerated until their stand was worth 168 and Australia's lead well past 100. The new ball brought the prospect of greater interest for New Zealand, and after Khawaja stroked Boult's first ball to the cover fence the left-armer created trouble by varying his line and degree of movement.

Khawaja finally fell to a delivery that straightened down the line of middle stump for an lbw verdict from Richard Kettleborough, though not before he had pushed his Test average beyond the 50 mark. Next ball, Marsh narrowly avoided a similar fate, but with his second he pushed with characteristic firmness and offered Boult the chance to take a wonderfully athletic return catch.

Nevill's hands were softer, and by the interval he and Voges had consolidated. The older man duly reached the fifth century of a run that is now stretching the bounds of credulity. His methods are the result of a long and hard first-class apprenticeship, his temperament and bearing, somewhat redolent of Michael Hussey.

After a stand of 96, Corey Anderson found some extra bounce to prise out Nevill. The local broadcaster had given Siddle the compliment of an allrounder's designation when the match began, and he did not let them down. Like Nevill, he began carefully before freeing up, all the while adding splendid support to Voges.

By day's end, the stand was worth 68, the lead 280 and, most memorably, Voges had in his possession a Test batting average of 100.33. In that context, at least, New Zealand's grim day was understandable.

We needed Wagner. Craig should not have made the team. Santner's injury had more implications than just losing a spinner.

Nathan Lee
on February 13, 2016, 23:51 GMT

some of the most dissapointing cricket iv seen from my black caps since the world cup final - they should be all fired for that weak 1st innings effort

Ryan
on February 13, 2016, 23:50 GMT

Richard Illingworth needs to redeem himself and call a no ball when Kane Williamson is dismissed.

Yasein
on February 13, 2016, 23:15 GMT

Subtract around 240 from the Aussie total. Thats their real first innings total

Merv
on February 13, 2016, 22:55 GMT

Voges is like Mike Hussey - late career selection and making every post a winner. NZ should be able to save this match as Wellington can't be without rain for 5 days.

Daniel
on February 13, 2016, 22:50 GMT

cant wait for McCullum to get a pair in his last Test

Jay
on February 13, 2016, 22:26 GMT

What a shame that this great knock of Voges will always have a question mark hanging over it due to that fact he scored most of the runs after he was "out".

Android
on February 13, 2016, 22:21 GMT

Boult yet to see anything special. Australia have piled on runs against this kiwi attack on many occasions. very average

Android
on February 13, 2016, 22:21 GMT

Boult yet to see anything special. Australia have piled on runs against this kiwi attack on many occasions. very average

rob
on February 13, 2016, 21:53 GMT

@ Keralite: Jason Gillespie and Mitchell Johnson are both of indigenous descent. Dan Christian (has played some ODI's) as well. There are probably quite a few others but it's just not a big deal. The original aussies are a naturally gifted bunch and they are more than welcome to partake in any sport that takes their fancy. It's just that most of them prefer the various football codes. .. The fastest and best bowler I ever personally faced was a Koori bloke we all called Dangerous Dick. I always thought he could go all the way in cricket, but he was far more interested in rugby league and only played cricket occasionally. Such a pity because he was a far better cricketer than footy player. And that's how it goes.

Ryan
on February 13, 2016, 23:59 GMT

We needed Wagner. Craig should not have made the team. Santner's injury had more implications than just losing a spinner.

Nathan Lee
on February 13, 2016, 23:51 GMT

some of the most dissapointing cricket iv seen from my black caps since the world cup final - they should be all fired for that weak 1st innings effort

Ryan
on February 13, 2016, 23:50 GMT

Richard Illingworth needs to redeem himself and call a no ball when Kane Williamson is dismissed.

Yasein
on February 13, 2016, 23:15 GMT

Subtract around 240 from the Aussie total. Thats their real first innings total

Merv
on February 13, 2016, 22:55 GMT

Voges is like Mike Hussey - late career selection and making every post a winner. NZ should be able to save this match as Wellington can't be without rain for 5 days.

Daniel
on February 13, 2016, 22:50 GMT

cant wait for McCullum to get a pair in his last Test

Jay
on February 13, 2016, 22:26 GMT

What a shame that this great knock of Voges will always have a question mark hanging over it due to that fact he scored most of the runs after he was "out".

Android
on February 13, 2016, 22:21 GMT

Boult yet to see anything special. Australia have piled on runs against this kiwi attack on many occasions. very average

Android
on February 13, 2016, 22:21 GMT

Boult yet to see anything special. Australia have piled on runs against this kiwi attack on many occasions. very average

rob
on February 13, 2016, 21:53 GMT

@ Keralite: Jason Gillespie and Mitchell Johnson are both of indigenous descent. Dan Christian (has played some ODI's) as well. There are probably quite a few others but it's just not a big deal. The original aussies are a naturally gifted bunch and they are more than welcome to partake in any sport that takes their fancy. It's just that most of them prefer the various football codes. .. The fastest and best bowler I ever personally faced was a Koori bloke we all called Dangerous Dick. I always thought he could go all the way in cricket, but he was far more interested in rugby league and only played cricket occasionally. Such a pity because he was a far better cricketer than footy player. And that's how it goes.

Brian
on February 13, 2016, 21:50 GMT

@Drew12 - Yes, you are right re Cowan and Paine. If they were NSW boys, they'd have had a nice long Australian career thanks very much! (Yes, Cowan is a NSW boy, but played for Tassie when selected and dumped).

Cricinfouser
on February 13, 2016, 21:20 GMT

I'm sure seeing Voges batting on and on must be a massive embarrassment for Illingworth. Well it ought to be as it's basically decided the match. Still I'm happy that Voges should be the one to benefit from this ineptitude, one of the nicest guys in the game.

Merv
on February 13, 2016, 21:11 GMT

This should be the best day for batting. Put aside the misplaced whining about no-balls and NZ should be able to bat long and well on this now easy paced pitch and be grateful that Starc isn't there to shake their tree with extreme pace. If they can't do well today that would be shattering for their fans. Australia lead 2-0 already in the series and another loss by NZ would make the last test a dead rubber.

Michael
on February 13, 2016, 20:39 GMT

A good day at the office but not home yet. Marsh at 6 is the concern for me at the moment too. A true No. 6 IMHO is a batsman first who can rescue or shepherd the tail and bowl a bit. its a fine line to be honest and Steve Waugh was one of the best. Sobers was probably the greatest. Of today's No. 6 Stokes is up there and now the finished article. I agree .. Marsh continues to look more a No.8 .. So who do we put in if not MM?

David
on February 13, 2016, 20:13 GMT

...(cont) this NZ side's stregnth is their swing bowling and much of the attack with the second new ball didn't get above 130kph. Bracewell, their best seam option was consistently bowling around 127kph. When they bowled above 130kph they seemed to ask more questions with extra zip off the wicket. While this is not the fastest Australian attack there are at least two seamers who will consistently bowl at 135kph+... we may still see some life yet.

Shaun
on February 13, 2016, 19:54 GMT

At the end of the day, whoever bowled first and bowled well was going to have huge advantage in this game. Nz batted poorly and most of them gave their wicket away, Aussie bowled well too. Now they're batting well on a pitch that has turned to give the batsman the advantage, regardless of the umpiring blunder nz still need to be performing better. Interesting 2 days coming up for nz and baz. Last two times this happened to nz at the basin kw an baz stepped up and they either won or drew the game. Will history repeat

andrew
on February 13, 2016, 19:50 GMT

Difficult to stomach how bad this performance is especially when coupled with the tour of Australia. It clearly shows the last couple of seasons have been a false dawn and NZ still aren't good enough to compete with the big boys. Nothing significant has been achieved in the McCullum Hesson era, a few test series wins over avaerage opposition, a few drawn overseas test series in a time where every other team is weak. This team is just another average NZ team even Flemings team won in Eng. We don't deserve tours from the likes of Australia.

Lucus
on February 13, 2016, 18:58 GMT

Great batting by the Aussies! Khawaja looked superb! Disappointing no-ball call but it dosent take anything away from the 2, they looked great minus that hiccup. Now lets hope for a Williamson special or a Bmac basin special.

Gary
on February 13, 2016, 18:28 GMT

As an NZ fan this is the blackcaps opportunity to show they are actually worth the greater respect theyve gained as a test playing team over the last couple years, big runs needed from KW, BM and BJW

Prasanna
on February 13, 2016, 18:17 GMT

@MikePatt , that's was really good - i wouldn't care a jot about the T-whatever.
If Aus wins this series, I would take that any-day.

Yasein
on February 13, 2016, 18:11 GMT

It seems we can never recover after being given a howler which is a bad sign. I can just hope that we might get a howler on our side when we are batting. Hopefully Tommy, Kane, and the rest of the top order step up to the plate and play respectable knocks. Our top order will need to provide 3-4 centuries to make up for the disastrous first innings.
We will need to bat a long time to play for the draw. A win is out of our reach but hey anything can happen when u have Boult with the new ball.

Asad
on February 13, 2016, 17:55 GMT

I must say the Kiwis always come short when it comes to the longer format of the game. A lot of talk before the game but for some reason or the other do not show up.

Khawaja currently is in a different fray from the rest. Pure class and flair in batting. Has stylish batting like the subcontinental players.

gokul
on February 13, 2016, 17:38 GMT

Slightly off topic (I would be surprised if the comment gets published).
It is good to see Khawaja getting support from the Australians. This is a really good sign for the children born to immigrants as they too will they can take up the game professionally and their parentage will never be an obstacle to playing cricket at the highest level. If Khawaja continues like this such people will have a hero, an icon to look up to. As Australia is great multicultural country, this was already due. Thanks to administrators and the fans.
Now time to produce some heroes from the indigenous communities :-)

Momin
on February 13, 2016, 17:37 GMT

No country playing well outside their home. If any team is competitive, I dnt thnk so...

sowmi
on February 13, 2016, 17:09 GMT

@Sam Matthews Please dont mistake what I have said. I never said x team is better than y team. To be fair England only toured once after 2011 and lost 5-0 not 10-0.I was simply replying to the post that nobody wins in India and Australia. No team in the world be it South Africa,England Pakistan, Australia or India are far ahead of the rest. The fact is all these teams have lost in various parts of the world and it is a clear toss up for the no 1 spot. Saying that Australia will dominate cricket for the next decade is a bit of a stretch for the moment as there looks to be good competition from a lot of teams. Credit where credit is due though, their performance in this test has been sublime and will send a clear message to the other teams that they mean business.

Milind
on February 13, 2016, 17:04 GMT

Incorrect call from the umpire...one team has to suffer. That's why we have the reviews. I think the 3rd umpire should have stepped in and overturned the no-ball call, regardless of what happened at the other end. If umpires be penalized for their mistakes, then so be it. Neither team on the field has to suffer for umpire's mistakes (on the job, I might add).

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 16:50 GMT

NZ will fold under the pressure in the 2nd dig - all out 250.

Sam Matthews
on February 13, 2016, 16:33 GMT

@CSOWMI7 Grasping at straws a little there, especially mentioning England in 2011. Since then they've toured twice and gotten thumped 10-0. Meanwhile Australia has lost 6-3 in the ten Northern Ashes matches. Pretty clear which is the better team there. As for South Africa, well they got mighty lucky. They were thumped in the Gabba, thumped again in Adelaide only to scrape home with a draw against an ailing and injured attack. Then they finally capitalised when Australia were playing a second string attack.

sowmi
on February 13, 2016, 15:38 GMT

@TinkerTinker
England managed to win in India on their last trip
South Africa won in Australia on their last trip as did England in 2011.

Mitch
on February 13, 2016, 15:34 GMT

@Omar Jafri, 'give them no chance in 20/20 world cup in India, they wouldn't have any clue on slow spinning trackc, any doubts ask SA'------>>> Who cares about what we do in what is called as the Tee twenty slog fests???

sowmi
on February 13, 2016, 15:32 GMT

@TinkerTinker I agree that at the moment there is no clear no 1 team in the world but South Africa managed to compete wherever they went and were rightfully no 1. The Aussie team of the 2000s won in each and every country they played in. Notice how I mentioned that they are one of the best in the world but to be the clear no 1 they need to win in England India and the UAE. If they dont win the rankings will take care of themselves. When India were no 1 for a period of time our achievement was always derided despite the fact that we won series in New Zealand Sri Lanka Pakistan, England,drawing in South Africa and Australia and hadn't lost a single series at home since the Aussie tour of 2003-04.

sfsdf
on February 13, 2016, 15:00 GMT

csowmi7 why do the aussie need to win in every single country to be best in the world?

Who is this other number 1 team that is winning everywhere?

Nobody is winning in australia right now

Nobody is wining in india right now

Only Australia and England can win in SA

Nobody is winning in the uae right now

You just need to be slightly better than the rest to be number 1 you don't need to be perfect.

carl
on February 13, 2016, 14:51 GMT

I remember khawajas test debut, seemed a bit overwhelmed, understandably, amazing what a bit of confidence and maturity can do, is he the new greg chappell well lets not pressure him, sit back and enjoy the ride

Mitch
on February 13, 2016, 14:46 GMT

@Theluckycountry, spot on mate!!! Yeah that's mighty Aussies!! They'd never lost a test series in Nz since 1987!!! I actually like the NZ side and think they bring much to the table. I have more respect for their fans than for some of the English who were also as way over the top this ashes series as some of us were!!! Geeze c'mon we are gunna retain this Trans-Tasman #CmonAussie

Omar Jafri
on February 13, 2016, 14:29 GMT

@Theluckycountry Thats a bit of a stretch, You may not have noticed the whacking they received from England last Ashes series, as bad a team performance as one could imagine, yeah! they may be looking good right now but trust me their bowling line up without Starc is right about even with Kiwis, forget about NZ but I give them no chance in 20/20 world cup in India, they wouldn't have any clue on slow spinning trackc, any doubts ask SA

sowmi
on February 13, 2016, 14:25 GMT

@TheLuckyCountry No doubt this Australian team is one of the best in the world and have 2 of the best batsman in the world in Warner and Smith but Voges and Khawaja are yet to prove themselves in foreign and subcontinental conditions. Hazlewood and Starc are class but this Australia team can only be compared to the great Aussie team of the early 2000s period if they manage to win in India and claim an Ashes in England. The way Lyon was taken apart in the UAE while the Pakistan spinners took loads of wickets shows that they still dont have a spinner of the quality of Warne or a Swann. If they win in India next year and win the Ashes in England they will be undoubtedly the best side in the world.

Jono Makim
on February 13, 2016, 14:20 GMT

@Dunger.Bob, you are right of course. A quick sum or two, if he was dismissed another 40 times to go with the current 12 times he has been dismissed, averaging around 40 across that time, he would end up with around 2800 runs @53/54. If he were to average 50 across another 40 dismissals his average would end up at around 61. Given his current form I could certainly see him achieving that. Of course this is a real stab in the dark, that would be around another 25 tests but he may go on well past that of course. Even trying to guess how many times he may be dismissed is difficult, given that he is in his 14th match and only been out 12 times to date!

Jono Makim
on February 13, 2016, 14:09 GMT

And finally, congratulations to the @Khawaja_Brigade aka @Paul_Rampley, @Sunil_Batra, @Flemo_Gilly. You guys have been relentless for years on end telling us how good Khawaja would be, never failing to mention him in a single post, maybe even sentence. His success must be pretty sweet to all of you fellows. Seems like you've even made a new friend in @Shiva_Chemist.

dave
on February 13, 2016, 14:08 GMT

@ZZBY Giving the option of batting or bowling first to the visitor and not toss a coin would have made little or no difference in this current test as Aust know you bowl first at the Basin. Other places you bat first every time. You still need to bowl well - which Aust did.

subhasish
on February 13, 2016, 14:01 GMT

I don't understand still people criticizing smith every one saying smith struggles to score outside Australia but smith in this match answer all the questions he play beautifully score important 70 Australia 5-2 when smith come to bat ball was seaming and swinging that time but still people thinks smith can't play in overseas conditions he score runs in England south Africa west indies India uae and now in new Zealand he is a best test batsman in the world at the moment that's the fact ....

Monty
on February 13, 2016, 14:01 GMT

@THELUCKYCOUNTRY Such Australian hubris and arrogance! The fact is that your countrymen got the better of the conditions in which to bat. You will see a better batting performance by the Kiwis in the second innings. Lyon is not the best spinner in the world. In fact, he hardly spins the ball. You do have some good fast bowlers but that doesn't mean you'll dominate test cricket for the next 10 years. You may dominate in Australia, but not in the subcontinent and England.

Nainil
on February 13, 2016, 13:57 GMT

Voges is a pure class of a player. Pity that he has only played 14 Test matches so far. An average of above 100 after 14 Test matches is absolutely unbelievable. Khwaja continues to show his class and temperament. And Steve Smith as usual batted extremely well and intelligently. This Australian side is well on its way to compete Ricky Ponting and his fabulous side in 2000s.

Jono Makim
on February 13, 2016, 13:51 GMT

@shortsillypoint, I don't think it's hindsight at all, I called for Wagner in the match preview and I'm sure others did too.

@JB633, Khawaja is certainly the form bat in the side, not sure he's the best though. On the Kiwis, I think we'll see some regeneration over the next couple of years and guys like KW, Latham, Santner, Neesham, Boult, Milne and Henry can certainly form the basis of an even better side, Southee and Watling will be around for a good while yet too. I'd be far more glass half full, were I a Kiwi fan.

raj
on February 13, 2016, 13:50 GMT

Disappointed completely with the test pitch. Only england, srilanka & india had recently dished out bowler friendly pitches. Looks like aussies & kiwis are only interested in boosting up their batsmen averages.

Bruce
on February 13, 2016, 12:55 GMT

Basically this is a miss match. Australia will whitewash the Kiws as usual as their mouthy righteous fans quieten down. You guys will always live in our shadow and you should be just happy that you are on the same paddock as Australia. In Warner, Smith, Khawaja and Voges we have the best batting unit in the world by a mile. Add to that the best spinner in Lyon (and most under rated bowler of all time) and a pace bowling battery that despite the losses of MJ and Rhino is still of the most feared attacks ever. We have 8-10 high quality quicks I reckon. We will dominate for 10 years at least and inevitably win the Ashes 5-0 as per usual.

Ron
on February 13, 2016, 12:52 GMT

The incorrect no-ball notwithstanding, it was a great knock by Mr. Adam Voges. Congratulations to both he and Usman Khawaja on achieving their respective milestone.

wils
on February 13, 2016, 12:51 GMT

@THERRUORACLE I thought Khawaja is Australian citizen and so he's playing for Australia. BTW, who's interested in migrating to subcontinent?

dave
on February 13, 2016, 12:40 GMT

@ZZBY Giving the option of batting or bowling first to the visitor and not toss a coin would have made little or no difference in this current test as Aust know you bowl first at the Basin. Other places you bat first every time. You still need to bowl well - which Aust did.

Sam
on February 13, 2016, 12:33 GMT

I agree, regarding Burns, that it is unfair and a bit ridiculous to be calling for his head. At the very least he deserves the rest of this series. Personally, I would give him at least another even if he doesn't do particular well - openers need to be given slightly more time since they are more likely to get virtually unplayable deliveries. He has shown that he might have a slight weakness against inswing but there is not enough evidence to say whether it is enough reason to drop him, and he has scored 2 hundreds plus a really good 70 on a greenish pitch at the Gabba. Anyway, great to see the boys playing so well away. It was as if it was written that Uzzy was gonna get another hundred - I definitely wouldn't have bet against it - he is just on another level at the moment. NZ will be really disappointed with their batting. It seemed like they were just being overly aggressive - I suppose the nerves got to them, but it was a poor performance. Great job by Josh and Sids of course too.

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 12:29 GMT

Still on M Marsh: I saw both of his balls and he looked rather woody

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 12:26 GMT

Burns is doing OK - his technique is sound and he is young - worth persevering with as there is no viable alternative

Marsh is looking very much like a real-cricket No. 8 so he had better get his skates on bowling-wise or else its adios amigo to another Marsh.

ubaid4u
on February 13, 2016, 12:25 GMT

Proud of Khawaja... Love you mate. Wish you were here. Love from Pakistan.

carl
on February 13, 2016, 12:12 GMT

Khawaja was born in Pakistan however he emigrated to Australia when he was very young and played his cricket through the junior ranks in Australia. I think that more than qualifies him to be considered Australian and play for Australia.

@iceaxe88 ...wveeyone remembers the last test there against india..this is no different it will be a draw bm probably wont get a triple...NZ dont have the septh homna moss rosco...surely should of given sohdi a chance. .at least he can turn it

Drew
on February 13, 2016, 12:00 GMT

I'm with the support for Burns. It's a pity Cowan didn't receive the same support though. Rogers did well, no grudges there. But Cowan is batting better than ever, but because he lacked the support years ago, he won't get a chance to put in great performances for Australia again. Same with Paine.

Venkatesh Venkatesh
on February 13, 2016, 12:00 GMT

Another three hundred is required from Brendon McCullum to save this test and stem Australian surge . The script of this test match is already written on second day of the test match itself , it is no wonder this test match may not go beyond fourth day

David
on February 13, 2016, 12:00 GMT

@ TheTrueOracle Re your reference to "the Pakastani guy Khawaja". Apparently he held the bat upside down till he learnt the Australian way. Eventually he will be up to Aussie standards but is a work in progress. Great knock today by the Australian number 3.

Mike
on February 13, 2016, 11:54 GMT

KRITESHH......Yep you can expect those, because that Vogesy is an Aussie but AB is a Saffa....I don't think there's a hell of a lot to worry about that anyway ! Water off a duck's back mate....cheers

Drew
on February 13, 2016, 11:38 GMT

Well said SHIVA_CHEMIST. In my opinion the Indian tour was a complete mistake that should never have happened in the first place. There is usually a break after the ODI portion of the Australian summer for our players, however this year there were only a few days between the last match in Australia and the first match in NZ. India expect to be treated like a major draw-card, however this year the main draw-card for the Australian side has been the home and away test series against NZ. Hence, Australia were reserving certain players, rotating and resting etc, not to mention injuries, which is where the 2nd string aspect arises. Hazlewood and Starc were the big missing names, but there were also rotations. Perhaps the tension has been building from when Australia prioritised the Ashes series of 2013-14 by sending Johnson home rather than have him play the deciding ODI against India in India. Resting Hazlewood has been totally worth it, as was resting Johnson.

Hrishikesh
on February 13, 2016, 11:22 GMT

Lets not start questioning Burns yet. He should have one more series after this to prove his worth. He's not been bad so far averaging 40. Got unlucky caught down leg, it happens to everyone. Marsh's batting is starting to worry me though. Mainly his hard hands, absolutely no subtlety to his play. That's all fine in ODI's and T20 coming with 10 overs left but not when you are building a long innings. Sadly there's no one else who seems a better fit as an medium pace all rounder at the moment. So we'll have to do with Marsh for now.

Mohit
on February 13, 2016, 11:20 GMT

Two of the test most prolific batsmen? Sir, you misspelled "home conditions"

Xiong
on February 13, 2016, 11:20 GMT

@HatsforBats Looks like @annoyedofit answered the question for me. Basically I think Burns is copping a bit more than he should. Averaging over 40 when you've only just started your test career and you're an opening batsman isn't exactly bad. He plays the line more than most Australian batsmen and what the test team needs is someone who can eat deliveries more than score quickly right now. We have Warner, Smith and Khawaja for that, and Voges to hold the middle order together. Burns' job is to blunt the new ball and he's averaging 43 in 8 tests with 2 centuries and he's 26 years old. I honestly don't understand the lynch mob that has formed regarding his position in the team, and I'm pretty sure the reason for it is because he isn't pretty or exciting to watch. It's as though people think he's over the hill and can't get better. I see massive room for improving already pretty good statistics, and I think we should stick with him. I'm a West Aussie but a Bancroft fan I am not.

The NSW and Vics get touchy when it's not one of their own out there don't they?

zab
on February 13, 2016, 11:18 GMT

Get rid of toss in test cricket and let visitors to decide what they want...

John
on February 13, 2016, 11:17 GMT

New Zealand always fight hard at home, I still think a draw, but a good knock by the Pakistani guy, Khawaja.

richard
on February 13, 2016, 11:16 GMT

I find it interesting that Scooby 007 cannot name any pundits. but can name one fan of being racist towards the Queensland captain. haha.

Laurence
on February 13, 2016, 11:15 GMT

We were outplayed simply by a more efficent side. We have a clear weakness with Craig and Anderson's bowling if the top 3 dont strike. Batting wise, we need an improved top order effort to at least post a chase for the Australians.

Mohamed
on February 13, 2016, 11:13 GMT

Khawaja and Voges - very much impressed :)

Kritesh
on February 13, 2016, 11:05 GMT

I dint see anyone complain when ABD scored century of 30 balls against the same WI bowlers. ABD was hailed as a genius but Voges is being called a FTB. WOW!!!
I know some of you will ridicule me for comparing ABD and Voges. Clearly ABD is the best batsman in the world at present but what Voges has achieved in no mean feat. Several other players have played tests against "poor" teams. How many got close to SRT's record?

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 11:04 GMT

So the umpire made a mistake - big deal - it has happened B4

Liam Doherty
on February 13, 2016, 11:02 GMT

3 day match anyone. hope not.

Stu
on February 13, 2016, 10:53 GMT

Well done Australia (from a kiwi). Only rain can save us now...

Jake
on February 13, 2016, 10:40 GMT

Scooby 007, as you said, some pundits and Aus fans. Just clarifying that up until this year he has been too inconsistent to rate him any higher. As for his roots, most Australians don't care if his heritage is from Mars. As long as he makes his fair share of runs. If that happens he will be appreciated just like anyone else. Don't make us all out to be racists mate. It seems to me like some asian supporters like to believe that all Aussies are like that. It sounds like they are guilty of the very prejudices they want to label Australians with. In other words don't generalize. Go uzzie!

richard
on February 13, 2016, 10:38 GMT

@Annoyedofit,... If being not good enough is not enough for you, then maybe being a Queenslander will have to do.

Mike
on February 13, 2016, 10:35 GMT

Pras.....I reckon that bloke to bat down the order, may be #5 or 6. He's some serious problem with the new ball IMHO...Yep that said Burns needs to find touch but could replace SM (lol) if he doesn't come up to scratch. Wouldn't be bad if Uzzie/Dave opens !(?)

Will
on February 13, 2016, 10:34 GMT

Yesterday I agreed that a no-ball called on field had to stand. Today I saw the replay. OUT! Umpiring needs a complete overhaul. The officials continue to bring the game in disrepute. Pathetic.

annoyed
on February 13, 2016, 10:22 GMT

@HATSFORBATS, GABBA first test, MCG just after Warner threw his wicket away. But hey, the boy's from QLD so lets look for paperthin reasons to drop him

kieran
on February 13, 2016, 10:02 GMT

@ModernUmpiresPlz, can you give us an example of when Burns has hung in there when it was tough?

Saq
on February 13, 2016, 9:47 GMT

I think Khawaja is Underrated, and with his form, will continue to be so in Aus. Some pundits and Aus fans don't want him permanent in the team. Can't name the pundits, but fans like 'annoyedofit' will verify. Maybe it's to do with his routes. I think he should just go back and play for the country of his 'routes'. With his class, he'd at least be appreciated there, not to mention that country needs a solid opener like him. Wish this guy all the best. Looks like a real deal in his application.

Shiva
on February 13, 2016, 9:37 GMT

Dear Aussies and Kiwis, I'm an Indian fan too. But, I never posted any insulting comments about other teams. I'm a calypso sort of fan and always enjoying good cricket. Like other fans, I'm supporting my Indian team too but in good spirit. At the end of the way, I would love to watch a good game of cricket. I always appreciate the good cricket no matter whoever is playing. I know some Indian and Aussie fans are insulting each other team by posting some silly comments. It's not good. Losing is new to Australian cricket because they are dominating test and ODI cricket for a long time but some Indians got mad because whenever they lose, SOME aussie fans are saying it's because this is 3rd or 4th string side etc.. We should respect our opposition whoever it is and appreciate when they play well. Some Ind fans are crazy too I know. That's why they are always fighting with each other. Hope they will stop posting such comments and appreciate each other performance and it's good for cricket.

rob
on February 13, 2016, 9:28 GMT

@ Jono: With so few innings in his career, even a short slump could affect his average more than most. Not that I'm wishing that on him btw. Obviously that wouldn't be good for the team, so yeah, 98 will do me too.

Keith Rodrigues
on February 13, 2016, 9:28 GMT

Well done Aussies, should be enough to secure the no.1 test and ODI rankings! It would be weird if Vo ges does finish with a higher average than the Don, but he has worked hard for a long time in domestic so it's great he's relishing his chance. Also good to finally see how good Khawaja is overseas, the reason why he isn't playing every format for Aus is a mystery.

Allan
on February 13, 2016, 9:26 GMT

@rossfleming agreed on khawaja, get him to open in one day and T20s and he is number 3 in tests, fantastic batsman. @sunil I also think boof deserves a lot of credit for khawaja's success, fantastic coach

Nish
on February 13, 2016, 9:24 GMT

@ STEPHEN SCOTT Firstly, you shouldn't generalise that all sub-continent fans are only into the shorter formats of the game. Many of us are a bit longer in the tooth, religiously followed the game even before these shorter ones came into existence & so appreciate all formats as I believe they all have a place in our sport. Moreover let us not pretend all pitches in Aus/NZ have all been sporting ones - with an even contest between bat & ball taking all 5 days in account. We've had pitches there as flat as roads where batsmen have piled on runs in mind-numbing, high-scoring draws whilst other times we've had green tops where matches have barely have lasted three days! Similarly not all pitches in India have been rank turners from Ball 1 of the match but sometimes weather & other extenuating reasons are a factor in pitch conditions.

Ian Gemmill
on February 13, 2016, 9:24 GMT

Often, the pattern at The Basin has been for the team batting first to score modestly, the two middle innings to be substantial and a battle resumes in the final innings. There's a resemblance to the recent Perth test, too, but Taylor is missing.
IF the New Zealand batsmen can shake of their obsession with Baz's 'positivity' approach and play sensible cricket, paradise can be restored. Baz could score 200 here if he chose to discipline himself.
This is a flat track, now, and my mother-in-law could get a 100 here.

Jono Makim
on February 13, 2016, 9:10 GMT

@Dunger.Bob, it would take an extended poor run of form for Voges average to be cut in half like that, I'd rather see him keep on making runs personally, maybe an end average of 98 or so would be appropriate! Hard to imagine his FC average was around 40-42 a couple of years ago, he has really mastered his game. In any case, if he can keep on like this for another year or three he'll be more than deserving of whatever plaudits he receives when he finishes up.

Hauke
on February 13, 2016, 9:08 GMT

I'm very pleased to see Siddle taking wickets and making runs. He's a very important and underrated part of the Australian team.

Shiva
on February 13, 2016, 9:06 GMT

Khawaja is one of the greatest findings for Australian cricket in recent times. This guy is really showing what he is capable of. Seems he can fit in all three formats. Hope he will continue to perform this way for the next few years. He has the every potential to become one of the best batsmen in the world. For that, he needs to perform consistently in all formats or at least in tests and ODIs. Hope he will do so. Well done Khawaja - From an Indian fan.

Prasanna
on February 13, 2016, 9:05 GMT

Too early to call anything on Joe Burns. But if he doesn't score well in the 2nd
innings or the next one, pressure would be on him. Is it just me or he looks
very weak against the one tailing in ?

Prasanna
on February 13, 2016, 9:03 GMT

It has been a good-day's play for us isn't it ? Hope we take those 10 wickets
required in the 2nd dig. Well played Ussie and Voges. Have always been of the
impression that Voges is vulnerable to quality swing and pace bowling. Have
made me eat humble what-ever , of-course with a bit of luck in his favor !!

Jon
on February 13, 2016, 9:01 GMT

This game has gone exactly how I thought it would. Since the WC NZ have slipped back a fair bit, especially in test cricket. They do not have the bowling attack to beat the Aussies in test cricket I am afraid. Without Taylor and Satner they were always going to struggle. I think B Mac is leaving at the correct time, he has done wonders for NZ cricket and his contribution can't be measured by stats alone. However, I felt that during the Eng series and then the Aus away series, the team was becoming stale and it needs a change up. His batting at test level has begun to struggle against the best attacks. Well done to Aus though, despite all the flak they get from certain Indian fans, they are still a good team across the formats and Khwaja looks like their best bat atm. 1-0 this will end up.

dave
on February 13, 2016, 8:31 GMT

For those asking why not Wagner? Good point but that's hindsight and the injury to Taylor, and Santner in particular, affected the team selection. While Aust will probably win in a canter with NZ being demoralised in the field for two days, the official's incompetence in the Voges "dismissal" has completely sealed it. I wonder how the umpire felt watching him bat all day and he's still not finished.

piyush
on February 13, 2016, 8:30 GMT

The pitch is good to bat.. NZ should have scored atleast 300 if not more ideally, given that they are playing at home. Credit to Aussie bowlers for restricting NZ to 183 and then Adam & Usman . Now Aussie needs to take the lead close to 400. It will require a lot from NZ to save this test which they can, since cricket is a funny game. So according to the pitch, Aussie win 85%, Draw 10%, NZ win 5%

Rohan
on February 13, 2016, 8:30 GMT

Australia's batting lineup will soon be very good, once they get Warner a functioning brain to use on green pitches, and a proper no.6 instead of playing a genuine no.7 or 8 in that position! I like Marsh, he has the potential to be a valuable all rounder. But a no.6 he ain't.

Shiva
on February 13, 2016, 8:24 GMT

Not surprising. Kiwis are one of the top 5 teams when comes to ODIs or T20s. But, they are not that good at test cricket even in their home conditions. The same goes to England but vice versa. They need to find some solid batsmen to play a long innings or the existing batsmen should change their approach in test cricket. They need to bat 3-4 sessions at least.

Mike
on February 13, 2016, 8:23 GMT

Whoa yeah ! I can sniff it....Oz is gonna win this test. As comprehensive and as expected as it could be..... Kiwis flawed and insipid top order completely exposed for what they are. NZ lack the skills and fight of Oz....Must be particularly satisfying for Smithy with his poor technique poses no threat outside Australia lol....dig deep lads, get a lead of 350 odd....whack em !

Stephen Scott
on February 13, 2016, 8:21 GMT

See, this is a message to the one eyed, biased sub continent fans that they will probably never get cuz they never played the game or even watched the match. To most, test cricket means being tested in a variety of conditions over 5 days and is the ultimate test of a players ability to adapt. Thats why its held in the highest regard by players and not by fans that think its dying and just enjoy 20 over stick cricket. So we have seen day 1 seam movement day 2 pitch flattens out and good for batting and hopefully spin to come into the game from day 3-4. Everyone is tested. There is no test, just survival when you have a rank turner with variable pace and bounce from ball 1.

Ross
on February 13, 2016, 8:15 GMT

Khawaja is sublime..Voges relentless. Baggies piling on more hurt for the Black Caps. Almost a 300 run lead.and still some batting to come. And seriously I can't get over how good khawaja is batting, he is our long term number 3 and should open in the shorter formats as he is pure class and a legend in the making. And Voges now averages 100.33 in test cricket. He has batted for 16 hrs 40 mins without being dismissed in tests. That's 1 hr 20 mins short of 3 days. He's faced 737 balls without being dismissed. That means if he faced every ball bowled, he would bat 1 full day, then till lunch the following day, and 15 balls after lunch.Incredible and he's still going

Nadefr5020842
on February 13, 2016, 8:12 GMT

People are forgetting that the side batting 2nd has to chase on a 5th day pitch which is not fun at all. If NZ had shown better resolve and application to leave the balls outside their stumps and not play some silly shots, then maybe they'd be the ones making merry instead of the aussies. The pitch wasn't that venemous to begin with, so it was mostly NZs fault they are where they are.

Rahul
on February 13, 2016, 8:12 GMT

boof has to get a lot of credit as he has been inspirational in getting confidence out of guys such as khawaja, warner and smith.Boult's new ball spell was outstanding, finding seam and heaps of swing, and asking yet more questions of the Australian batsmen's technique against the moving ball.Usman Khawaja was excellent today, before he got a good'un from Trent Boult on 140. Marsh couldn't drag his ODI form over, with a second ball duck, which won't ease the pressure on his spot at all. Peter Nevill played a really important innings to rebuild after the two quick wickets after the new ball, before he played one a bit close to him and nicked Corey Anderson through behind for 32. Khawaja should surely open in all formats now, he is a long term partner for warner in ODIs and T20s too if we give him a chance.

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 8:03 GMT

Kiwis will be all out for 250 in the second dig

Ali
on February 13, 2016, 7:59 GMT

well aussie selectors need to explain it to their people why was khawaja not selected for ODIs? The guy is scoring a century in almost every match and looks in great form

bowl150mph
on February 13, 2016, 7:55 GMT

I bet NZ can't make 400 in second innings no way they can make 400....top 3 down then all below em are history...they have same team for all formats and that's quite the repeat...

Hamish
on February 13, 2016, 7:53 GMT

Poor batting by NZ. no doubt. Not much luck either. Voges batted superbly in both his innings.

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 7:48 GMT

Just catching up on the result after my own game & stunned on how well we finished up. Without having the benefit of seeing too much I was lucky enough to see Ussie early & he looked sensational. The morning session still had something in it for the bowlers, it far from batting friendly but the application I saw was excellent. I guess the fact we are going so well means the trolls have little to post. The Kiwis are still a tough unit, they won't be bending over for us, we will need to earn the win. Cheers.

Todd
on February 13, 2016, 7:45 GMT

You would hope in this day and age, absolute howlers like the no ball incident could never happen, it just defys belief. Well as a Black Caps supporter, we're used to being the scrappy underdog with all odds against us, and still putting up a good fight. Let's see how the next 3 days goes.

vivek
on February 13, 2016, 7:38 GMT

my thoughts are as follows: aus to bat until lunch tomorrow, effecting a lead of 400 runs.. nz to bat 6 sessions on a flat track and score 600, leaving aus 200 to get in the final 2 sessions, which they will and go up 1-0. anybody think otherwise?

Digby
on February 13, 2016, 7:36 GMT

Stop blaming the pitch. It was a god toss to win but there is no way is was a 183 pitch. Not enough credit is going to the bowling of Hazlewood and to a lesser extent, ol' man Sids.
To simply say NZ batted on one itch and Australia on another is ridiculous and an insult to Hazlewood, Khawaja, Smith and Voges

Karl
on February 13, 2016, 7:36 GMT

Average of 100 well done Adam Voges... Also the most runs between dismissals in test history as well - Bravo
Wonder how many of those bleating "not fear" about the "no ball" call on Adam Voges were cheering when the glue kept the bails on for Mark Craig - both being their teams highest scorer??

sfsdf
on February 13, 2016, 7:35 GMT

sarangsrk we don't think our team are suddenly great on green decks but then why do nz fans think their lot are any better?

Nz have now failed early on a greentop 3 years in a row at the basin reserve, they failed twice at Adelaide on a green pitch and they failed in england on the pitch that had life, they are NOT good at batting on helpful decks.

Your_average_
on February 13, 2016, 7:31 GMT

I find it incredibly amusing that certain posters claim that square turners are way better than the swinging pitches that does not give the advantage to one team completely,

wilson
on February 13, 2016, 7:26 GMT

UT with another ton, that's tight ! pure class ! votes has another few years to prove that he' can come close to senior hussey. BMac needs a few more than a ton to save this bad boy off his back.

carl
on February 13, 2016, 7:23 GMT

notice the voges 'dismissal' had the ball hitting the top of off stump, good spot to bowl that, eh

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 7:16 GMT

Regarding the Kiwis - their bowling lacks penetration. Boult and Southee are OK in patches but the others are serviceable at best. Craig is only just serviceable and Anderson - one bad ball per over at his height and pace is asking for trouble. They will never beat quality real cricket teams with this attack. The Kiwis are triers and that is to their credit. The Windies should take a leaf out of the Kiwis book in that regard - the Windies are a rabble and a disgrace to real cricket at present. Even S Marsh made a huge ton against them and that says it all

Nish
on February 13, 2016, 7:14 GMT

Just like Michael Hussey who made his Test debut at 30 & went on to have a wonderful Test career, pretty amazing the same thing is happening to Adam Voges who started playing Test cricket only last year & even later at the grand old age of 35! He is now going such a purple patch where he can't stop scoring & has incredibly currently attained a Bradmanesque average of 100! Really well done to him - particularly when he must have given up all hopes of ever having a Test career not long back. Kudos to the Aussie selectors too - for making such inspired selections whilst disregarding the player's ages.

Peter
on February 13, 2016, 7:10 GMT

The only genuine concern at present is the batting of one Mitchell Marsh. I watched his innings totaling a pair of balls today and he has two problems: First, similar to Watto his initial movement is a step forward and second he goes too hard at the ball.

The solution? Play him at 7 and see if he improves. If he does not improve then send him back to the Shield comp so he can figure out for himself if he wants to (1) remain an allrounder, (2) do a Rhino and focus on his bowling or (3) do a Smith and focus on his batting. I prefer he take the second option as I do not think he has it to hold his own as a batsman in the top 6 of the Australian real cricket team

jagannath
on February 13, 2016, 7:03 GMT

Stage set for a match saving marathon from Brendon McCullum.

Raghu
on February 13, 2016, 7:01 GMT

Match saving double 100 from Williamson in 3rd inning will leave Australia about 200 to chase on the last 2 sessions of day 5. Will be interesting!

Sarang
on February 13, 2016, 7:01 GMT

Well, so again toss decides who commands a test within 2 days. I would much rather have a track which spins or seams or is quick & bouncy from day 1-day 3/4. To their credit, NZ at least got to 183 because they showed enough temperament to last beyond 18.2 overs. Not so long ago, Aussie posters here were blasting their team's inability to play swing (or even understand which way it will swing/seam) when got shot out for 60. Even Smith & others acknowledged the same after Trentbridge failure. One day of flat track bullying outside home and posters claiming "they are now going places." Haha. Dear friends, be consistent in your analysis else you stop being taken seriously. Anyway, hope NZ can put up a better batting performance next 2 days. Will make for interesting last day in that case. Cricinfo, plz publish.

rob
on February 13, 2016, 6:55 GMT

I hope the fates decree that Voges doesn't end his test career with his average better than Bradmans. He's played beautifully for the most part but I'm pretty sure he's no Bradman. Something around 50 would be fine for Adam.

Jonathan
on February 13, 2016, 6:53 GMT

@BigMaxy - I'm a little surprised about Wagner too. Your lot showed that its been a deck to hit, not to try for swing. But Hesson et al have been reluctant to pick horses for courses and aimed instead to build trust in key bowlers. After years where kiwi selectors acted on weird hunches we're overall very happy with the current lot!

annoyed
on February 13, 2016, 6:48 GMT

Peter Nevill scores 32, gets out playing a bad shot. Where's the anger at a needless dismissal?

David
on February 13, 2016, 6:40 GMT

@ Wayne_Larkans_barnett Without a doubt the most insightful response I have read under the WLB banner. For the first time EVER I agree with everything you have written. I say that because I and everyone I know who reads the WLB (the i version that is) has never agreed with a single thing before. I am almost speechless .............. almost. It leaves me only to ponder - what a difference an a makes! Loving your work.

kieran
on February 13, 2016, 6:37 GMT

Well it's hard to be critical after a day of 3-300, but to be honest I think we could've upped the tempo a little at various stages to be well over 300 in front rather than 280. Like I said, it's a small criticism; perhaps Nevill could broaden his horizons? He's opened in one day games for NSW and he's got a few more shots in his locker than what he showed today. But there's still life in the pitch and he did come in against a fairly new ball, so I might be being a bit tough. That's the good news for Aus, the new ball is still getting some lift and movement from the pitch, so with scoreboard pressure and some early wickets we'll be in business. I'd like to see us bat 'til lunch tomorrow if we can and really have Boult & Southee bowling more overs,

Balasubramaniam Bala
on February 13, 2016, 6:34 GMT

Debuting at 35 and going on to catch up time lost great way to go Voges.

I wanted to simply document one current aspect which stuck me. Joe Root, Kane Williamson, Steven Smith and Virat Kohli each lynchpin of their respective team has been having some unbelievable purple patches in all formats and at the same time mighty great to watch.

Khwaja too seem to be in that kind of zone now and doing his own catching up.

Fantastic times ahead for world cricket since, all these guys are in their mid 20s and the next decade looks mighty promising.

Eddie
on February 13, 2016, 6:27 GMT

As an Aussie fan, I'm surprised the kiwis don't go with Wagner. He's like Siddle a consistent workhorse. Is jimmy neesham healthy? I always like his play more than Corey Anderson. Hopefully Santner is back next test. He's a real talent and doesn't go for many runs.
For the Aussies, Mitch marsh is still a worry with the bat. Siddle batted well but you can't count on him to do that every time. Nevill looks a real tough fighter. I'd consider moving him up to 6 so Marsh and the other lower order guys can play their shots aggressively.

Xiong
on February 13, 2016, 6:26 GMT

Wow, did Wayne_Larkans_barnett really say that?
Things I never thought I'd see - 1) That.
@Mervo You should have a look at his ODI/T20 stats again. He strikes at over 120 in T20 cricket and averages 30 domestically and over 45 in internationals, averages over 45 in ODI cricket striking at 90. That's up there with the very, very best. His international stats in all forms are actually better than his domestic records.
@annoyedofit Yeah, I don't get it either. Burns is the opener we need as a foil to Warner, not the prettiest player but he often hangs in there when it's tough. Picking flashy, good looking batsmen who score a quick 30 and then get out hanging the bat in no man's land and expose the middle order early like Shaun Marsh has been a huge part of the problem with the Australian test team of late.

J
on February 13, 2016, 6:22 GMT

I am a great cricket fan but sometimes I get to wonder at a game that two teams have to play the same match under completely different conditions - suppose concept of level playing field does not apply for cricket I guess

Cam
on February 13, 2016, 6:12 GMT

Calm down peeps.NZ still has to bat on a pitch which has flattned out remarkebly.

mark
on February 13, 2016, 6:11 GMT

Australia has totally outplayed New Zealand so far in this game, and it's a shame to look at one howler and blame that. New Zealand could have had an advantage batting first, if they had managed to give the first session to the bowlers and play at a LOT less deliveries. I'd rather a couple of LBWs and Bowleds in a first session than 5 caught behinds. Fact is, Australia have been much more disciplined with bat and ball. I would have thought NZ might have learned from Perth where they managed to bowl Australia out faster in the end, the moment they became extremely disciplined with the ball, which is all you can do once it stops moving about. Yes there was a bad decision that has probably added a couple of hundred runs to Australia's total, but, cricket is full of little wild cards and you have to be good enough to take 11 wickets sometimes. I'd like to think that New Zealand can put on 600 in the second innings and show some fight, wear out their bowlers. Hard to see that though.

Jonathan
on February 13, 2016, 6:10 GMT

As a Kiwi fan, can only say, kudos to the Aussies, who look likely to be deserving No1s for a good long while. Not a great team, but a very good one, and there aren't many of those at the moment. Mostly because, worldwide, the bowlers are weak. Case in point: Our attack looks average to poor in less than helpful conditions. Boult looks less threatening every game; Southee is riding on reputation more than results; Bracewell can only be called unlucky for so long; Craig is clearly not a test spinner. I'm still happy with how Hesson and McCullum have shown faith and gotten good performances out of this lot, but Milne and Henry both might be worth a look soon. Our batting is full of holes too, unfortunately, and no up and coming domestic players are going to stiffen it in the near future. Wouldn't Guptill be better at 6 than as an opener?

Merv
on February 13, 2016, 6:06 GMT

@ MINDMELD fully agree. The Ashes could have been entirely different if two tosses had been won by Australia and Clarke not going against all common sense to bat first on sticky when he finally did win toss. Tosses should not be such a major factor in Test matches. None the less, Australia's batting is stronger and Voges with his experience should play on for a few more years. He is no T20 slogger, not even a ODI player, but like Bucky Rodgers, is a true Test player, who the records remember. We need to select more like him for their First Class cricket records. Klinger should have been chosen years ago for the same reasons. March should bat at 8, even after Siddle. He is not a test batsman of any reliability.

Glenn
on February 13, 2016, 6:05 GMT

@baggygreenmania Yeah I'd have to agree. Elegant and simple technique wins the day.

annoyed
on February 13, 2016, 6:01 GMT

Burns has hit 2 100s this summer. What is wrong with you people who constantly want him dropped. What is it?! He averages over 40!

Is it because he's from QLD?! is he keeping an undeserving NSW player out?! Is it because he's keeping out perennial under performer Bancroft?!

Please tell me what it?!

Craig
on February 13, 2016, 5:56 GMT

Exceptional mental capacity by Voges after the controversy the nite before. Khawaja was simply sublime. Does any one agree with me. Uzzie and David Gower. Similar timing, effortless strokeplay. Yes David Gower in his prime.

Teodorick V Antonio
on February 13, 2016, 5:56 GMT

Well done to Khawaja and Voges, as they save Australia from 3 wickets down. Very unfortunate that Joe Burns and Mitch Marsh did not take their chance to establish in Test team. I hope they are still learning as Ashes in England is still a long way.

carl
on February 13, 2016, 5:50 GMT

OMG now they want the umpire banned for 5 years lmao

joanne
on February 13, 2016, 5:49 GMT

Wow how wrong was I, you can sometimes get all caught up in all the rhetoric and trolling but I have to admit that I WAS WRONG, this Aussie team is going places, since the retirements after the ashes they have not looked like losing a test match, and even though I always say they are the worst team away from home... well, I was wrong on that too, after finally looking at some facts.. in the last two years Australia have won 2 tests in South Africa, 2 tests in the West Indies, 2 in England (they lost the series but we English could only dream of winning 2 tests in Australia), and now they are on there way to a another away test victory here, There really only blemish was a 2 nil loss to Pakistan or you can go back to EARLY 2013 to India, but that was so long ago it is really irrelevant, so I have to give credit where it is due and say I WAS WRONG this team is going places.

Wayne
on February 13, 2016, 5:45 GMT

@MODENUMPIRESPLZ. Well put mate. Some of those that bagged Australia's batting unmercifully under the big seaming & swinging conditions during the ashes, and were lightning quick to point out that England batted much better after our day one collapse at Nottingham have mysteriously gone AWOL. NZ have capitulated meekly in much more benign conditions here with Australia apparently getting the better of the wicket as it conveniently settled down after lunch when we batted. Funny that but not at all surprising

David
on February 13, 2016, 5:44 GMT

The more I see of Peter Nevil bat, the more I think 6 is too low for him, he seems a real innings builder. Perhaps it's too much responsibility to put on him, but I think that he might be a good choice to be Australia's first middle order wicketkeeper (at least as far back as I remember).

Hard to imagine how good this side could have been if not for the Phillip Hughes tragedy, as it is, sadly I think Burns might have one more test in him to prevent getting dropped. Sounds like Khawaja is keen to open too, so that puts Smith at 3 and Voges at his normal WA position of 4.

Or do they bring Klinger in?

Thomas
on February 13, 2016, 5:40 GMT

That no ball...baa, baa, baa...stop bleating and get over it!

Hrishikesh
on February 13, 2016, 5:36 GMT

If we had lost the toss and been bowled out under 200 nobody would be talking about the toss itself. All the talk would be about how we can't play when the ball moves with references to TrentBridge and Edgbaston. Why don't people now bash NZ for failing cope when the ball moves? They failed in Adelaide too, now here. Why is it only Aus that gets ridiculed in those situations? Would everyone be calling NZ lucky or England lucky that they didn't bat first on those pitches? Nope. Apart from that Marsh really needs to learn to use soft hands, it's a joke the way he defends. Move him down to 7.

carl
on February 13, 2016, 5:35 GMT

Credit has to be given to Voges for not letting anything distract him and rubbing the noses of the Kiwis in the dirt. Champions have that quality!

Mitch
on February 13, 2016, 5:34 GMT

All seems to be coming together for Aussies as if designed by fate. Josh, another future superstar, back with a red ball and building nicely. Khawaja on the mend with Voges in good nick looks superb!! All rounders spot pretty well sorted and almost the same with the Keeper. Smith's form and some runs for Neville all looking pretty amazing atm!! Can't see the Kiwis stopping us from here!! Looking forward to claiming that #1 test ranking again. Well done lads!!! #CmonAussie

carl
on February 13, 2016, 5:33 GMT

Australia still has a few weaknesses that need and probably will be sorted out in time. Marsh is not good enough at #6, Voges will retire soon and the jury is still out on Burns opening.
The bowling will be more settled with Starc, Pattison and Cummins all back from injuries along with Hazlewood and workhorse Siddle. Bird may not be up to it but a couple more have to step up and have a squad of 6 to 8 fast bowlers.

Mitch
on February 13, 2016, 5:16 GMT

What a difference a game makes!! After the ODI's all you heard from the plastics was "the suns shining & the birds are singing & Nz gonna win the Test series". Now its all doom & gloom. hahahaaa!!! Request to publish.

Cricinfouser
on February 13, 2016, 5:16 GMT

guys, here's some simple maths:

if he doesn't get dismissed it will remain over 100.
If he gets dismissed, he'll need to get 272 beforehand for it to remain over 100.

Liam Doherty
on February 13, 2016, 5:10 GMT

What could have been if Voges was given out???? As for the Adelaide match NZ couldn't get Starc out (24runs @ SR 160) so with that in mind Australia would have had a lead of around 100 runs if Lyon was given out on DRS. Warner given out when Bracewell over step the mark. Smoke that.

Craig
on February 13, 2016, 5:07 GMT

Hard handed Marsh. Spot on Dan. Thankfully Usman is not hard handed. He is a wonderful technician. Makes batting look easy something like David Gower at his peak. Voges was, at one point late in the day, averaging more than The Don in test cricket. Believe it or not. He had his test average at precisely 100. Not sure it will remain that if he is not dismissed. But what a piece of trivia to tell your grand kids.

JOHN
on February 13, 2016, 5:04 GMT

NZ are expecting to do too much. Most of the wins recently are clearly due to some vet careless play by key players. True to our belief this team ( ie Australia) has depth and some variety? so have managed to make a winning game of it.
Warner, Smith, Burns, Finch, Marsh, and likes do not the luxury of not delivering.
We seen some very ordinary selfish play from they'd guys recently. 70/100 not good enough. Every game should produce a Khawarja and Voges type of result, we expect that of every game.

Asim
on February 13, 2016, 5:02 GMT

"That no ball, that no ball cost us the game"...seems like first ever mistake by an umpire.

sam
on February 13, 2016, 5:01 GMT

Every 1 going on about pitch/toss factor.Remember it is NZ's home series-they are hosting it!And it happens in this game sometimes,you actully end up reaping fruits of seeds you sowed.Full credit to Aussie.Have'nt allowed NZ back in the game.Good for 1-0.

Phil
on February 13, 2016, 4:57 GMT

According to Cricinfo stats, Voges needs 1 more innings to qualify for the highest career batting average. The record only counts after 20 innings. If he remains not out, this innings and bats again, he would need to get to 1300 runs (another 90 runs) - or remain not out... to have a career average of 100. Given that the next player has an average in the 60's, there is a pretty good chance that Voges will end up as the second highest by the end of his career.

Xiong
on February 13, 2016, 4:54 GMT

Too many comments about how favourable the conditions were on the first morning. It moved a bit, sure, but it was hardly a minefield, nothing like the extravagant and constant movement that Australia saw in England. The same detractors who tore Australia apart for their performances in England on MUCH more difficult surfaces are now defending the Kiwi collapse on a much easier one. They had to survive 2 hours on the first morning and lose 2-3 wickets and they were right in the game. They couldn't and now they're paying for it. Give credit where it's due.

Kevin
on February 13, 2016, 4:51 GMT

It's days like this it makes you wonder if NZ should pick an alternative attack. Perhaps the toss made all the difference, but once the ball stops swinging Boult and Southie are military medium at best. Milne and even Henry look better bets once the shine is gone. Mark Craig as their spin option also looks wrong even though he's a handy bat. However we'll just have to suck it up. This test is as good as lost already.

Asif
on February 13, 2016, 4:37 GMT

Adam Voges should retire now with avg over 100

Ryan
on February 13, 2016, 4:32 GMT

Bad fielding, that no ball and not a great day of captaincy have cost us. Craig dropped Smith on 20-odd, Voges has added 160* more runs since the no ball, and McCullum took way too long to go for the short bowling strategy. We've missed Wagner.

Mitch
on February 13, 2016, 4:31 GMT

Well said Mindmeld!!! Thumps up mate.

Krunal
on February 13, 2016, 4:28 GMT

superb this from Aussies from what I read I guess aussies have got the best the of conditions to bat on but they have achieved by bowling better in condition helping them which sometimes go overboard.... UK and av deserves all the applauds . people thinking abt a no ball that's a part of game and we might get used to it very rightly said by one of the kiwi supporter it is frustrating but need to be accepted expect some fight fromnl new Zealanders

richard
on February 13, 2016, 4:25 GMT

And so Adam Voges proves once again that Rickyvoncanterbury knows diddly squat when it comes to ALL things cricket

Omar Jafri
on February 13, 2016, 4:24 GMT

Wow!! Adam Voges averaging almost 100 in test cricket...whatever happened to the bowling standard, he is just an averge batsman, with limited array of strokes, half of his runs were made against Very ordinary West Indies bowling attack and now NZ ...incomprehensible!!

Steve
on February 13, 2016, 4:22 GMT

Well done Australia, made the most of the conditions. Winning the toss is a big deal in Wellington but NZ still to bat the second time so up to us to show what we are made of on what is now a very good batting wicket. It is a shame this is the second Aust/NZ test in row with a big "what if" over the match based on umpiring "clangers". Not Australia's fault, but they are a tough team to play under normal circumstances without the advantage of umpiring errors.

subhasish
on February 13, 2016, 4:20 GMT

Great innings by Usman khawaja he proved that he can play in overseas conditions

James
on February 13, 2016, 4:20 GMT

Everyone can See the toss had a great effect here. This is the danger with wickets that are too green or too dry. England were really, really lucky Clarke messed up and batted on a green to for the third test, then won the toss for the last two tests. That series would have been very different if England had had to bat first in the rain on those tracks. Here it was Australia that got the roll of the dice. Now, coming to the second test expect a dicey pitch again. NZ will gain nothing by putting down a flat track, and have a 50/50 shot at bowling first on a green top. England played Russian roulette during the Ashes and got the empty barrel four times in a two-barrel gun. Cardiff was also equally imbalanced, but because it was too dry and flat, even more so than usual.

rob
on February 13, 2016, 4:19 GMT

From the way things have gone today it looks as though most of the spice has gone out of the deck. I think we'll need a lead of 300 to give our bowlers the best part of 3 days to bowl the kiwi's out again. >> I've got to hand it to Voges. At his age he won't have a long test career but he certainly is making what time he has count. That's one on the board for selectors I'd have to say. He was blowing the door down with a bazooka in the shield, but they must have been tempted to go with someone much younger.

David
on February 13, 2016, 4:16 GMT

@Dalboy, you look in the scorebook for the textbook definition. It is not relative....

Dale
on February 13, 2016, 4:10 GMT

I know it's all could've been but as a black caps supporter surely people understand that's hard work watching your team get smashed by a guy you saw bowled of a legal delivery last night. but I know we've had about 250 balls since to get him out. just saying its frustrating to watch.

Garry
on February 13, 2016, 4:06 GMT

Khawaja still looking good and Voges taking his second chance. Nice innings from Neville also, good old fashion grinding batting helping the team into a strong position. Marsh is going to have a lower batting average than Johnson soon, but he is a pet so he has nothing to worry about.

Merv
on February 13, 2016, 4:01 GMT

Great play by Usman and Voges The ongoing whining about a no ball is unfair. The umpire shouts "BALL" and the batsman has a split second to act. Video is irrelevant once the umpire shouts. NZ completely outplayed so far in this test.

Shane Stevens
on February 13, 2016, 3:49 GMT

I wonder if half the people commenting here are even watching the game!!!!! All the talk of a green top and how Boult and Southee are struggling in favourable conditions. The pitch was green for first 2 hours yesterday then has flattened out so it's now batsmen friendly!!! Good score by Voges but he should've been back in the Hut last night for 7

Dale
on February 13, 2016, 3:29 GMT

All this talk of Voges scoring three test centuries on the trot without being dismissed really just depends on the way you define dismissed doesn't it. Nothing against him, done absolutely nothing wrong - he's batted really well and nothing against the umpire, we all make mistakes. Just bad luck for NZ that this mistake was made at that time against a guy now averaging in the 90's in test cricket. It's pretty tough to get guys like that out once yet alone twice.

Jake
on February 13, 2016, 3:13 GMT

The Aussies have the best top order in the World at the moment. Warner, Khawaja, Smith and Voges.

Omar Jafri
on February 13, 2016, 3:06 GMT

Kudos to Khawaja and Voges for playing magnificent knocks, Australia should win this one if Nathon Lyon does his tricks

David
on February 13, 2016, 2:56 GMT

It seems the famed duo of Southee and Boult aren't as good as they were touted to be. It was only 6 months ago that Broad and Anderson brought the same Aussie line up to their knees in helpful conditions. These two haven't been able to do half as much in similar helpful conditions.

andrews
on February 13, 2016, 2:56 GMT

Marsh narrowly avoided an lbw first ball? He hit the cover off it. It pitched well outside leg. It was missing leg by an even greater margin. Otherwise a great analysis of that ball.

andrews
on February 13, 2016, 2:54 GMT

Just testing, Daniel. Is this coming through?

anilkumar
on February 13, 2016, 2:49 GMT

Definitely innings win for Australia...

Paddy
on February 13, 2016, 2:43 GMT

What happened to Ross Taylor ? You need class at the top of the order in a test match.The multi purpose allrounder will not do

Beau
on February 13, 2016, 2:36 GMT

Tea on Day Two, and the best case scenario for NZ from here is an Aussie collapse, and NZ facing a new ball in the morning, trailing by 200- 225. Not a very attractive prospect, but the absolute best they can hope for. Slow start has cost them once again. Very disappointing from a fan's perspective. Job number one for Captain Kane: Stronger starts Test to series.

Mike
on February 13, 2016, 2:32 GMT

With all due respect the Kiwi medium pacers are probably just a smidge below the class of the Pom trundlers.....We seem to have sorted the selection issues that caused a few problems in England.....I truly believe we can hand the kiwis a hiding that will hopefully silence the SC trolls....Enjoy your large slice of humble pie ! Go the Oz

Wasim Shaikh
on February 13, 2016, 2:27 GMT

Well done young man! he made look batting so easy which on a seaming green track...Adam Voges too played well.....All in all a dominating day for Australia

Mike
on February 13, 2016, 2:18 GMT

Congrats Khawaja......treat to watch it ! Bat the whole day, the test is ours......dig deep lads you're a class or two above the this mob ! Good luck

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:51 GMT

MM isn't having much luck with c&b's, cracker of a catch from Boult just quietly.

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:42 GMT

Khawaja is just a class act - where are the doubters from yesterday?

Sam Brady
on February 13, 2016, 1:28 GMT

And Marsh out 2nd ball.
The proof that is voges was out when he should have been Australia may have been out a long time ago.

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:11 GMT

The dual juggernaut of Khawaja and Voges steamrolls on, without a flat track to be seen, if Voges doesn't drop his average by more than 30 in the next 1000 test runs he will have figures comparative to Headley and Pollock, not bad company that!

Marcus
on February 13, 2016, 0:54 GMT

The wheels have well and truly fallen off the kiwi test team. Boult and Southee are ineffective, the fielding is mediocre, the batting weak and Williamson has been shown up as the most overrated player in the world.

Wayne
on February 13, 2016, 0:39 GMT

Business as usual for the aussie batting this summer. Khawaja, Smith and Voges all dispelling the myth of being unable to play away from home. No excuses NZ. You just haven't turned up with either bat or ball.

Rohan
on February 13, 2016, 0:30 GMT

So pleased Khawaja is fulfilling his potential at last, and being the batsman Australia really really needed to come along with Clarke's retirement. Still looks a little vulnerable, perhaps, to nagging spin, but he has the shots to still destroy it if it's not top shelf. He'll need to get his sweep shot going if he wants to succeed in India though. Now if only the Shield can cough up another quality batsman, preferably under 25 this time, we'd be just about set!

Jake
on February 13, 2016, 0:15 GMT

Well done Khawaja. Hopefully his run of form continues and he settles in at first drop in all forms of the game.

Scott
on February 12, 2016, 23:59 GMT

This pitch always plays like this. Green and fizzing on first morning and a batting paradise for the next 4 and a half days. Why would the curator create a pitch where there's a 50% chance the home team will be sent in? the Kiwis are much better then the score suggests, let down by the risk of the groundsman. But maybe that's what NZ asked for? Live by the sword, die by the sword...

Phil
on February 12, 2016, 23:56 GMT

AUS need at least 400 to feel they have the match under control. It is going to be hard to take wickets on day 3, so score as many as possible today and put NZ into bat with an hour to go. I doubt Kane Williamson will fail in the second innings, so a lead of 200-250+ will be necessary to keep the 4th innings chase low.

No featured comments at the moment.

Phil
on February 12, 2016, 23:56 GMT

AUS need at least 400 to feel they have the match under control. It is going to be hard to take wickets on day 3, so score as many as possible today and put NZ into bat with an hour to go. I doubt Kane Williamson will fail in the second innings, so a lead of 200-250+ will be necessary to keep the 4th innings chase low.

Scott
on February 12, 2016, 23:59 GMT

This pitch always plays like this. Green and fizzing on first morning and a batting paradise for the next 4 and a half days. Why would the curator create a pitch where there's a 50% chance the home team will be sent in? the Kiwis are much better then the score suggests, let down by the risk of the groundsman. But maybe that's what NZ asked for? Live by the sword, die by the sword...

Jake
on February 13, 2016, 0:15 GMT

Well done Khawaja. Hopefully his run of form continues and he settles in at first drop in all forms of the game.

Rohan
on February 13, 2016, 0:30 GMT

So pleased Khawaja is fulfilling his potential at last, and being the batsman Australia really really needed to come along with Clarke's retirement. Still looks a little vulnerable, perhaps, to nagging spin, but he has the shots to still destroy it if it's not top shelf. He'll need to get his sweep shot going if he wants to succeed in India though. Now if only the Shield can cough up another quality batsman, preferably under 25 this time, we'd be just about set!

Wayne
on February 13, 2016, 0:39 GMT

Business as usual for the aussie batting this summer. Khawaja, Smith and Voges all dispelling the myth of being unable to play away from home. No excuses NZ. You just haven't turned up with either bat or ball.

Marcus
on February 13, 2016, 0:54 GMT

The wheels have well and truly fallen off the kiwi test team. Boult and Southee are ineffective, the fielding is mediocre, the batting weak and Williamson has been shown up as the most overrated player in the world.

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:11 GMT

The dual juggernaut of Khawaja and Voges steamrolls on, without a flat track to be seen, if Voges doesn't drop his average by more than 30 in the next 1000 test runs he will have figures comparative to Headley and Pollock, not bad company that!

Sam Brady
on February 13, 2016, 1:28 GMT

And Marsh out 2nd ball.
The proof that is voges was out when he should have been Australia may have been out a long time ago.

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:42 GMT

Khawaja is just a class act - where are the doubters from yesterday?

Paul
on February 13, 2016, 1:51 GMT

MM isn't having much luck with c&b's, cracker of a catch from Boult just quietly.

ABOUT COOKIES

We use cookies to help make this website better, to improve our services and for advertising purposes. You can learn more about our use of cookies and change your browser settings in order to avoid cookies by clicking here. Otherwise, we'll assume you are OK to continue.